Zao Onsen

Famous for its iconic snow monsters (frost-covered fir trees) and natural hot springs in a centuries-old onsen village.

Key Stats

Vertical Drop
880m (2,887ft)
The height difference between the top and bottom of the mountain
Summit Elevation
1,660m (5,446ft)
How high the highest lift or peak reaches
Base Elevation
780m (2,559ft)
Height of the main base village — higher means cooler, drier snow
Annual Snowfall
1,200cm (472in)
Average annual natural snowfall — higher is better for powder days
Trails
26
Total number of marked runs on the trail map
Lifts
36
Total number of lifts including chairlifts, gondolas, and t-bars
Resort Size
305 ha
Total groomed and patrolled terrain

Terrain Breakdown

The percentage of marked trails in each difficulty level. A higher beginner percentage means more terrain suitable for novices and families; a higher advanced percentage means more challenge for experts.

Beginner
40%
Intermediate
40%
Advanced
20%

Best For

PowderFamilies

Location

Zao Onsen sits on the slopes of the Zao mountain range in Yamagata Prefecture, in the interior of northern Honshu. This is mid-mountain terrain exposed to cold, moisture-laden winds off the Sea of Japan, which feeds its heavy snowfall.

Getting there

Moderate to reach

Fly into Tokyo Haneda (HND), then about 3.5 hours in by train.

Directions

Yamagata Shinkansen to Yamagata station then a 40min bus is the practical route from Tokyo.

Compare Zao Onsen to

These are the resorts most similar to Zao Onsen. Pick one to see a side-by-side.

vs Hakuba Valleyvs Appi Kogenvs Rusutsu Resortvs Myoko Suginoharavs Nozawa Onsenvs Niseko Unitedvs Furano Ski Resortvs Naeba

Explore Further

More ski resorts in Japan →Official website →